Overview
The Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is the most famous trek in Peru, offering a unique mixture of Andean mountains and cloud forest. This 4-day journey takes you through changing ecological zones, majestic snow peaks, and impressive Incan ruins.
- Day 1: Drive to Kilometer 82 and trek through the Urubamba valley to Wayllabamba.
- Day 2: Challenging climb to the highest point at Warmihuañusca Pass (4225m) and descent to Pacaymayo.
- Day 3: Visit several archaeological sites (Runkurakay, Sayacmarca, Phuyupatamarca) on the way to Wiñaywayna.
- Day 4: Sunrise at Inti Punku (Sun Gate) and a comprehensive guided tour of the Machu Picchu Sanctuary.
Full Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Wayllabamba
We will pick you up from your hotel in our private transportation and head towards Piskacuchu (2700 m.a.s.l.), located on Kilometer 82 of the railway. After crossing the Urubamba river, we walk a long flat way until Miskay (2800 m.a.s.l.) and then climb to the village of Llactapata (2650 m.a.s.l.). Finally, after five hours of walking, we arrive at Wayllabamba (3000 m.a.s.l.) for our first camp.
Day 2: Wayllabamba – Pacaymayo
We start at 6:00 am with the most difficult part of the journey: a 9-kilometer climb up the Valley of Lluclluchapampa. The path leads us to the Warmihuañusca Pass (Dead Woman’s Pass), the highest point at 4225 m.a.s.l. We may see llamas, alpacas, and possibly spectacle bears. After the pass, we enter the foggy valley of Pacaymayo (3600 m.a.s.l.) to set camp.
Day 3: Pacaymayo – Wiñaywayna
The longest and most interesting day. We cross the second pass, Runkurakay (3970 m.a.s.l.), visiting the oval archaeological center along the way. We then descend into the foggy forest to explore Sayacmarca (3624 m.a.s.l.) and pass through an Incan tunnel to reach the third pass, Phuyupatamarca (Town over the clouds). A stone path leads us down to the impressive agricultural terraces of Wiñaywayna (2650 m.a.s.l.), where we enjoy a farewell dinner.
Day 4: Wiñaywayna – Machu Picchu
Starting at 4:00 am, we hike for an hour along flat mountain stones to reach Inti Punku (Gate of the Sun – 2750 m.a.s.l.) to witness the sunrise. We then descend for 40 minutes to the Sanctuary of Machu Picchu. After checking in, we have a 2-hour guided tour of the complex. In the afternoon, we meet in Aguas Calientes before returning to Cusco by train.
Inclusions & Exclusions
The tour includes:
- Transfers: Hotel – Railway Kilometer 82.
- Entrance tickets to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu.
- Official tour guide (English – Spanish).
- Professional porters for camping equipment and food.
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary.
- Full Camping and Cooking Equipment (tents, mattresses, etc.).
- Communication equipment, First Aid kit, and Oxygen.
- Train Ticket: Machu Picchu – Cusco (Expedition Service).
The Tour does not include:
- First breakfast and last lunch.
- Sleeping bag (available for rent).
- Mineral Water and personal toiletries.
- Huayna Picchu entrance fee (must be booked in advance).
- Tips for porters and guides.
Recommendations
- Footwear: Broken-in hiking shoes or boots.
- Clothing: Layers for both cold high passes and warm jungle sections, plus a raincoat or poncho.
- Personal Care: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and high-quality insect repellent.
- Essentials: Sleeping bag (if not renting), water bottle, and basic toiletries (toilet paper, etc.).
- Backpack: A comfortable daypack for personal items.
General Info
Total Distance: Approximately 43 kilometers.
Highest Point: 4,225 m.a.s.l. (Warmihuañusca Pass).
Environment: Transition from high Andean mountains to tropical cloud forest.
Permits: This trek requires permits booked months in advance due to strict daily limits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does “Warmihuañusca” mean?
It is a Quechua name that means “Pass of the Dead Woman.” It is the highest and most challenging point of the trek.
Can I take a hot shower during the trek?
On the third night at the Wiñaywayna camp, there is an option to have a hot shower (subject to availability).
Is Huayna Picchu included?
No, climbing Huayna Picchu is an optional activity that requires a separate entrance ticket. There are only 400 spots available per day, so please check with the agency in advance.